Pathways to Skilled Trades in Durham Region Report
The “Pathways to Skilled Trades in Durham Region” report comprehensively analyzes the region’s skilled trades landscape, emphasizing the critical role these trades play in economic development and workforce readiness. Prepared in partnership with the Literacy Network of Durham Region (LiNDR), it examines the challenges and opportunities within the skilled trades sector, particularly focusing on pathways for literacy clients and the implications of Literacy and Basic Skills (LBS) programs.
A key finding of the report is the significant skills gap in the region, particularly within Durham’s five priority clusters: Agri-Food, Next Generation Mobility, Future Energy, Arts, Culture & Creative (Film), and Applied Digital Technology. These industries are poised for growth but face challenges due to a shortage of skilled workers. The report highlights the urgent need to align workforce development with the demands of these sectors, ensuring that the local population is equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in these trades.
The report also underscores the importance of apprenticeships in addressing this skills gap. However, it identifies several barriers that hinder the effectiveness of apprenticeship programs. These include a lack of awareness about the opportunities within skilled trades, the complexity of navigating the apprenticeship process, and financial constraints faced by employers in offering these opportunities. The report suggests that overcoming these barriers requires increased collaboration between educational institutions, industry leaders, and government bodies to create a more supportive environment for apprenticeships.
Additionally, the report highlights the vital role that LBS programs play in preparing individuals for careers in skilled trades. Despite this, data shows that only a small percentage of LBS learners pursue apprenticeships, indicating a disconnect between available resources and their utilization.
This new report provides actionable recommendations to bridge the skills gap, promote apprenticeships, and enhance the region’s overall economic resilience. By focusing on targeted training programs, stakeholder collaboration, and increased public awareness, Durham Region can better prepare its workforce for future demands.